Cumberland County Will AbstractsThanks to Jo Grasso
for contributing this information!

Will of Autery, Cornelious WB: B 180-181 Arch.
November 19, 1829/Proved December 1829
Leave wife Clody Autery the land where I now live for her life. After her
death it is to be sold and money to be divided between my brothers and
sisters (not named). Eldest brother to receive 1/2 tract of land above
Aversburg.
Executor. Daniel Maxwell.
Witnesses Joseph Chaston, John Sterling, Joseph Chaston, Jr.

Will of Autrey, Newsom, Senior, Planter
WB: C 352-353 Arch.
July 12, 1853/Proved September 1853
. . . I Newsom Autrey, Seniour of the County of Cumberland in the State
of North Carolina, planter being weak of body but of Sound mind and memory
...do make... this my last will and testament . . . I give . . . to my
oldest children viz. Jane, Iaruth, Margaret, William, Sally, Newsom, Nancy,
John, Mary, and Charlotte five shilling Sterling (apiece) to them and their
hens for ever.
I give and bequeath unto Clarry my Dear beloved wife All my other property
. . . to hold use it during her Natural Lifetime or so Long as she remains
Single and if She marrys again the property is to be taken and sold and
Equally divided among her Children to them and their heirs forever.
I also give Clarry . . . two hundred and twenty seven (acres) more or less
of my Land including the mansion house and improvements where I now Live
(during her life or widowhood) . . . and after her marriage or Death .
. . to be equally divided between her three sons Calvin, Marshil and Isaac.
I also Leave e fifty acres more or less to be Sold for to pay of(f) all
my just debts and what ever it may take of my perishable property and what
ever is over to the widow. The Land that is to be sold is to include the
mansion house whare John Autrey now Lives over Little Creek.
Executors: Duncan McLaurin;
John W. McLaurin
Witnesses: O. Jones, Hugh Jones.

Will of Ayer, Henry W. WB: B 305-307
July 18, 1839/Proved September 1839
Leave to my wife Sarah C. Ayer during her lifetime only, 1/3 of my house
and lots on Maiden Lane and Hogg Street, Pew #4 of Presbyterian Church,
on the ground floor. After her death all to my Daughters May Elizabeth
Ayer. Son Henry William Ayer. Mary Elizabeth Ayer’s grandfather, Mr. Salmon
and Grandmother, Mrs. Blakeny;. Brother Hartwell Ayer of Marlborough District.
“...me, as late Clerk of superior Court of Cumberland County”. “...my brother
Harwell Ayer of Marlborough District” I leave a tombstone for the late
Mrs. Blakeney his mother.
Executors. Friends Joshua Carmon, Henry McLean.
Witnesses: A. McLean, Jr. David Salmon, Dr. Benj. Robenson.
A codicil prover: by Dr. Benjamin Robinson July 30, 1839.

Will of McLeod, Murdock WB: C 88-89 Arch.
August 20, 1830/Proved March 1846
Leave to my wife Margaret for life, interest in lands of 372 acres then
to daughter Mary, tract and dwelling house including 117 acres, then to
daughters Catherine and Florah, 100 acres --the remainder of 2 surveys
of 100 acres off south side of land composed of additional acres taken
from the south and of 2 other surveys lying to the west of 50 acres. Son
Alexander 55 acres on both sides of Beaver Dam including Mill seat.
Adm. William L. McDiarmid.
Witness: L. Bethune.

Will of McLeran, Archibald July 25, 1850/Proved March 1851
WB: C 230-232 Arch.“I desire to be buried near or where my deceased and beloved wife is buried.”
To my daughters Mrs. Margaret Munroe and son John McLeran 1 part of land
on the north side of the swamp. “That is the south side divided between
him and brother Thomas, the dividing to commence at a pine well known where
little John Melvin was thrown from his horse.” To son Thos. M. McLeran--a
part of land on the north side of swamp and part of said land as lays adjoining
next to him. To son Daniel McLeran and Granddaughter Nancy McLeran. Daughters
Mary McLeran; Agness McLeran--the Griss Mill and land on the south side
of the big ditch; To Mrs. Isabella Jones, 100 acres of land joining John
Cade; Elizabeth McLeran Jones, 1 and son Robert McLeran 100 acres on Buck
Creek, being 2 surveys joining Jones. Codicil annexed.
Executors. Thomas (son) and friend Malcom McMillian.
Witnesses: John T. Honrine, R. McDaniel. Witnesses to codicil John C. Williams
and Robert McLeran.

Will of McLeran, Duncan, Merchant WB: B 65-67 Arch.
November 23 1818/Proved January 22
To my four children: son James, partner; youngest child Maria (under age),
and two daughters (not named), to my sister-in-law Jane Sutherland.
Codicil-”Neither of the husbands of my daughters/”
Executors: son James McLeran, friends John McLeran, Angus Taylor (merchants
of this town).
Witnesses: David Anderson, Duncan McRae, John Matthews.
Occupation of deceased: Merchant, Duncan McLeran and Son. Two stores in
Fayetteville and one in Lumberton, NC.

Will of Breece, Frederick D. WB: C 390-394 Arch.
March 19, 1858/Proved September 1858
Leave to my wife Sarah the plantation on the east side of the Cape Fear
River for her life and then to my son John. To my son James a the house
and lot in Lumberton, County of Robeson, as deed from W.W. Green in trust
for daughter Nancy, wife of Thadeus Bond. To son Joseph, land on the east
side of the Cape Fear River known as Eccles place joining the land of George
Lawrence and others, in trust for grandson Frederick son of Joseph and
Elizabeth Breece, and land in Fayetteville north side of person Street
between Person and Bow Street, --store house and improvements deed fro
John Mullens to me and store on Person street and contents. To Luther,
a lot on Dick Street Corner of Haighs lot running south on Dick Street,
deed from A. A. (T or L) Smith, late clerk and master to me. To Daughters
Rebecca 1/4 acre only of above property to Luther; Eliza Jane, wife of
John Jones; Columbia and Sarah. Grandsons: Frederic Jones, son of John
and Eliza Jones, and Frederick, son of Joseph and Elizabeth Breece; Granddaughters:
Mary, daughter of John and Eliza Jones; Sara Elizabeth, daughter of Joseph
and Elizabeth Breece; Gonabby, daughter of Joseph and Elizabeth Breece
are to see that their Father, Joseph Breece, is well cared for. Son-in-law
John V, Jones.
Executors: son James Breece.
Witnesses: Philemon Taylor and I.W. Lett.

I, SARAH A BREECE of the County of Cumberland and State of North Carolina
being of Sound mind and memory but considering the uncertainty of my earthly
existence domake and declare this my Last Will and Testament in manner
and form following that is to say:

Item 1st I give a devise to my youngest son JOHN S BREECE, one mare
(?) mule lately bought of Mary Ann Evans said to be about eight years,
also all the farming Implements of every description, also the crop and
provisions of every kind that may be on hand at the time of my death, also
my stock of hogs.

Item 2nd I give and devise to my youngest daughter SARAH CATHERINE BREECE
one note for $244. P.M. on Interst for several years past due by JAMES
BREECE to myself (principal and Interst to be collectd.)

Item 3rd I give and devise to JOHN S BREECE and SARAH CATHARINE BREECE
all the residue of my Estate consisting of Household and Kitchen furniture,
Cattle & Bees to be equally divided between them share and share alike.

And lastly, I do hereby constitute and appoint my son JOHN S BREECE
my lawful Executor to all interests and purposes; to execute this my last
Will & Testament according to the time intent and meaning of the same
and every part and clause thereof -- hereby revoking and declaring utterly
void all other wills and Testaments by me heretofore made.

In Witnefs whereof, I the said SARAH A BREECE do hereunto set my hand
and seal this _____ day of September A D 1870.

Signed by Sarah A Breece (Seal)

Signed, sealed published and declared by the said Sarah A Breece to
be her last Will & Testament inpresence of us, who at here request
and in her presence do subscribe our names as witnefses thereto -- The
word "her" interlined before signing----- Foster Mason; John
R Buie

Will of Archibald Holmes Will Book #4 No.1
July 22, 1796/Proved July 1797
In the Name of God Amen. I Archibald Holms of the County of Cumberland
of State of North Carolina being weak in body, but of sound memory (blessed
by God) do this Day make and publish this my first Will and Testament in
manner following (That is to Say) - First I give my Son Jas the (Negro
Virgil); and Negroe Tom I give for the use and service of my wife Elizabeth
Holms until my son Archibald is of age, then Tom is to be equally Shared
between Mary McKithin and Hannah Hadly, and then Negro Jack to come in
in Tom’s room and so remain and continue with my wife Elizabeth for life,
and after he Decease; the said Negroe Jack to be equally Divided between
my sons Arch’d and George; also I give Negroe Rose and Hanna to my wife
During natural life, and after her Decease the aforesaid Negroe girls and
their issue if there will be any I order to be equally Divided among all
my wife’s children - Archibald and Jean and Peggy George and Sarrah and
Also the land wherein I now live I give to my wife During her natural life
and after her Decease the said land to be equally divided between my sons
Archibald and George Holms. Also I give my Wife Elizabeth Holms all household
stuff and furniture and all the utensils belong to me on the plantation
all to be at her Disposal as she thinks proper; also all the rest and Residue
of my Chattles & Personal Estate whatsoevr I give to my said Wife Elizabeth
Holms and I make & ordain her my said Wife sole Administratrix of this
my Will in trust for the intents and purposes in this my will contained,
& in Witness Whereof I the said Archibald Holmes have to this my Will
and Testament set my Hand & Seal, the 22nd Day of July 1796.
Signed, Sealed & Delivered by the /s/ Archibald Holms (Seal) Said Archibald
Holmes, as for his First and Last Will & Testament in the Presence
of us who were present at the signing & sealing thereof;

Test

/s/ John Blue (Bluie)
/s/ Edward McMillan

Division of Estate of Archibald Holmes
State of North Carolina...

The undersigned and Subscribers being appointed by the last Cumberland
County Court to divide the personal Estate of Archibald Holmes of said
County deceased among his heirs, to wit: Archibald, Jane, Margaret, George
and Sarah, agreeable to his Will and having convened at the Plantation
of the late deceased and the heirs that are of age being present and those
underage also present by their Guardians, and having viewed the Negroes
belonging to said Estate we Report as follows that is to say we value Negroes...

Rose at the sum of Three hundred & forty dollars..................................................$340

Jack at four hundred Dollars..................$400

Grace a Girl at one hundred & ninety dollars.....$190

Tom a Boy at one hundred and ninety dollars...............$190

George a Boy at one hundred & sixty dollars...............$160

1/5 $1,280

Making one heirs share two hundred & fifty six dollars...............
.$256

And that we have allotted and delivered over said Slaves at their several
valuations to the heirs as follows. Rose to Jane Holmes, Jack to George
Holmes, Grace to John Crumpler & his wife Margaret, Tom to Archibald
Holmes & George to Sarah Holmes, making those who have the more valuable
dividends chargable to those of inferior values, and the said several Sums
on account of the more valuable Dividends to bear interest from the date
of this division, to wit: Jane Holmes to pay into the hands of Robert Dyer,
Guardian for Sarah Holmes, the sum of eighty four dollars. George Holmes
by his Guardian Archibald Holmes on account of his more valuable dividend
to pay into the hands of Robert Dyer, Guardian of Sarah Holmes, twelve
dollars. The said Archibald Holmes, Guardian aforesaid, to his brother
George to pay to John Crumpler the husband of Margaret Holmes, Sixty six
dollars an amount of said George’s more valuable dividend and further that
the said George’s more valuable dividend pay to his Brother’s Guardian
Archibiald Holmes the sum of Sixty six dollars, the Balance due of his
more valuable dividend. The committee observe that they have proceded no
further in dividing the residue of the Estate which consists of some cattle
and household stuff as there are some debts against the Estate which are
unsatisfied and as they conceive will about take that property to satisfy
the same. ----Given under our hands & Seals ........ March the Second
day 1807.

/s/ John Dickson (?) (Seal)
X Word (Seal)
/s/ H. Webster (Seal)

Will of Archibald HOLMES
Thanks to Mary Harper for contributing
this information!

Last Will & Testament of Arch’d Holmes Senr.
Recorded in Book C of Wills on Pages 436, 437, 438, 439 & 440,
Cumberland Co., NC.
(NOTE: This is the will of the son of Archibald Holmes - see will above
- who would have been a Jr. However, since his father was already dead,
and he had a son named Archibald, he was known as Sr. also.)

In the name of God, Amen! I Archibald HOLMES of the County of Cumberland,
State of North Carolina, do make publish and declare this my last Will
& testament, hereby revoking and declaring said all other wills by
me heretofore at any time made.

I desire my Executors, hereinafter to be named, to pay all of my just
debts and funeral expenses, out of any money or monies first coming out
of my estate into their hands.

1. I give and bequeath to my son George Holmes the following Negroes
and their increase to wit: Tom; Virgil; Hannah & her child Gus; Caroline;
Charles; Andrew; Charlotte; Francis; Amos and Eliza; to him and his personal
representatives.

2. I give and bequeath to my son John Holmes the following Negroes and
their increase to wit: Sam; Harriet; Clara; Moses; Lewis and Simon; to
him and his personal representatives:

3. I give and bequeath to my daughter Catharine, the wife of George
McKay, for her sole and separate use & benefit the following Negroes
with their increase Joe; Maria; Rachel; Fanny and Helen.

4. I give and bequeath to my daughter Sarah, the wife of Joseph Cade,
for her sole and separate use and benefit, the following Negroes, with
their increase, Briny; Alick; Della & her child Dave; Henry and Alfred.

5. I give and bequeath to my daughter Mary McNeill the following Negroes
with their increase, to wit: Sarah: Mahala; Susan; Bill and Mathew:

6. I place my old negro man Tom under the special care and protection
of my sons George and John Holmes, with instructions to them to see that
he is during his life time well provided and cared for.

7. I give and bequeath to my two grandsons, John A. Jones and Lewis
Jones, the sum of Two Hundred & Fifty Dollars each to be paid to them
by my Executors:

9. I give and bequeath to my daughter Sarah, the wife of Joseph Cade,
the one half of my Fayetteville and Northern Plank Road Stock for her sole
& separate use.

10. I give devise and bequeath to my son John Holmes all of that tract
or parcel of land situate lying and being in the County of Cumberland,
State of North Carolina, and being the land known as the Geddie land, with
the exception of One Hundred Acres (100) purchased from Gabriel Geddie
& by me hereinafter disposed of to him the said John Holmes and his
heirs forever.

11. I give devise and bequeath unto my son John Holmes all of the land
situate in the County and State aforesaid, lying and being on the North
Side of the Fayetteville and Northern Plank Road: also one hundred acres
purchased by me from William L. Miller as by deed recorded in Registers
Office Cumberland will appear to him and his heirs forever.

12. I give devise and bequeath to my daughter Catherine wife of George
McKay all of that tract of One Hundred Acres of land whereon the said George
McKay now lives with remainder over to her child or children to them and
their heirs forever: but in the event of her dying without issue then the
said tract of land to go to my son John Holmes and his heirs forever.

13. I give devise and bequeath to my son George Holmes the tract of
One Hundred acres of land know as the Gabriel Geddie land & being the
same tract excepted in the devise of the Geddie land, to my son John -
to my said son George Holmes & his heirs forever.

( No #14 skipped.)

15. I give devise and bequeath to my son George Holmes all of that tract
or parcel of land whereon I now live including the dwelling house, outhouses,
barns, etc. and known as the place of my residence: to him and his heirs
forever.

16. I give devise and bequeath to my son George Holmes all of my land
situate in the County & State aforesaid, lying and being on the South
Side of the Fayetteville and Northern Plank Road - to him and his heirs
forever.

17. I give devise and bequeath to my daughter Mary McNeill for and during
her natural life, the fifty acre tract of land on which she now resides:
also all of that tract or parcel of land commencing at the Parker line
and runs to the North side of the Kitchen, near a Mulberry tree, and then
on East & West line until it strikes the dividing line between William
Lud (Lord?) and Ezekiel Vann: with Remainder over after the death of my
said daughter Mary - to my son George Holmes his heirs and assigns forever.

18. Any and all other real estate or personal property that I may die
seized and in possession of, not heretofore by me specially devised &
bequeathed - I do give devise and bequeath to my two sons John Holmes and
George Holmes to have & to hold, jointly & severally, to them,
their heirs and personal representatives forever.

I do make constitute and appoint my sons John Holmes and George Holmes
my two and lawful Executors.

In Witness whereof I Archibald Holmes have hereunto set my hand and
affixed my seal this 23rd day of August A. D. 1860. Arch’d Holmes (Seal)

I, Archibald McFADYEN of the county of Cumberland
and State of North Carolina, do make and ordain this my last will and testament
in manner and form following VIS
I give and bequeath to my daughter Florah four hundred acres of land moree
or less called the Baker place at the rate of three hundred dollars. I
leave the remainder of my land to my four sons Archibald Buie, James, Neill,
and Dugald to be divided by five intelligent men. I leave my farming utensils
to be divided in like manner and to draw lots. I leave all my negroes and
stock to be equally divided among all my children except Daniel. I leave
five hundred dollars of money over an equal share with the rest to my youngest
son Dugald and one hundred dollars over an equal share to my daughter Mary
Ann and one hundred dollars over an equal share to my son Neill and fifty
dollars in like manner to my daughter Elizabeth. The other children are
to have an equal share of money except Daniel who is to have none. Books,
household and kitchen furniture to be divided in as equitable a manner
as possible. I give my son Archibald Buie --- machinery for dressing cloth.
I leave my children Mary Ann and Dugald to his care to board them on his
own expense and see that they will be educated with their own money.Three
hundred dollars or the amount is to be kept out of Florahs share of property
and two hundred dollars or the amount to be kept out Catharine's share.
I authorize the oldest son that will be living when John McFadyen of Moore
County will have paid principal and interest for the money which I paid
for Bowlas place to make him a deed for that place. Fifty dollars of money
are to be reserved to put tombstones to the graves of myself and my beloved
wife Nancy and forty dollars to put stones to the grave of my son John.
I give a bed and bed clothing to each of my daughters Isabella, Elizabeth
and Mary Ann. All the notes that I hold against my son Daniel are to be
given back to himself.

In witness whereof I hereunto set my hand and seal this 3rd day of April
in the year of our Lord Eighteen Hundred and thirty. I also nominate my
sons Daniel Archibald B. and James executors to this my last will and testament.

Witnesses:
Thomas Munroe
Neil Munroe
Hugh Ray

Daniel McFadyen
A. B. McFadyen
Qualified June 1830

Last Will and Testatment:

WILL OF COLIN McIVER 1815 - November 30. In the name
of God amen, I Colin McIVER, Preacher of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, officiating
in that capacity to the Presbyterian Congregation of Salt-catcher's Church
in the Parish of St. Bartholomew, District of Colleton, and State of South
Carolina
- My much esteemed friend and brother in law, Mr. Edward W. BARGE of Fayetteville,
North Carolina
- My much esteemed friend and brother in law, Mr. John BARGE of Fayetteville,
North Carolina
- My good friend, the Rev. John McINTYRE of Montgomery County, North Carolina
- My esteemed friend, Miss Eliza McRACKAN, of Fayetteville, North Carolina
- My much esteemed friend and sister in law, Miss Rachel BARGE of Fayetteville
- My esteemed friend, Miss Nabby KIDD of Fayetteville, North Carolina
- My beloved wife, Mrs. Sarah McIVER

Archibald HOLMES witnessed a deed from James SIMPSON
to Geraldus O'BRYAN in Cumberland County, North Carolina on 21 July 1757.
The deed was proved by Archibald HOLMES in August 1763. William LIVINGSTON
also signed as a witness.

On 15 August 1765 he witnessed a deed from John FERRIS & wife, Sarah,
to Thomas MATTHEWS, Sr. in Cumberland County. John McNULTY also signed
as a witness.

On 11 October 1768 Micajah TYRELL sold land to Archibald HOLMES, both
planters, of Cumberland County, North Carolina for 45 pounds. The land
was 200 acres on the northeast side of the Cape Fear River that was patented
to Samuel GOODMAN 11 October 1751. From this deed we find that Hannah GOODMAN
was the wife of Micajah TYRELL. Witnesses to this deed were Nathaniel HOLTON,
Thomas DICKSON and Archibald COLBREATH.

Archibald HOLMES witnessed another deed 17 July 1769 from Charles STEVENS
to Moore STEVENS, the 89 acres of land located on the northeast side of
the Cape Fear River. Other near neighbors were Thomas RUTHERFORD and Thomas
ARMSTRONG.

Archibald HOLMES made his will in 22 July 1796, and mentioned his wife,
Elizabeth. The will was proved in July Term of court 1797.

Archibald HOMES may have been married twice. In his will he mentions
"my son Jas.", leaving him Virgil, a slave. Then, he mentions
Hannah HADLEY and Mary McKITHIN, giving them a slave to share.

Will of Absalom McDanielIn the name of God Amen this Seventh Day of July Anno Dom 1798. I,
Absalom McDANIEL, being sick and weak in body of God & sound memory.
(Hoping abt ) the Resurrection of the just to be (raived) by Almighty Power
of God this the Merits of our Beloved Saviour Jesus Christ do make make
this my last Will and Tesament - after my Lawful Debts are discharged and
Funeral Charges paid. (to wit) I give unto my Brother Daniel my land on
the being about 149 arces (rnore or less) and also all my other property
of every kind whatsoever to hime the said, his heirs and a (forign ) forever.
I also hereby constitute & appoint my said loving Daniel McDANIEL my
sole executor to this my last Will and Testament.

Signed Sealed and declared in presence of us
Absalom McDANIELS
His Mark X

Rob EDWARDS
Mary M PORTER
Agnes McDANIEL

This will was ( ) the year of our Lord OneThousand and Sevenhundred
and Ninety Eight. On the back State of North Carolina, Cumberland County,
October Ten, 1798

Will of Daniel McDANIELIn the name of God Amen.
This Third Day of January 1801

I, Daniel McDANIEL, being sick & weak in body, but of sound mind
and memory calling to mind that all flesh must die and hope for the remission
of my soul thro the merits of our Lord Jesus Christ. I hereby do device
and depose of such temporal estate as God hath bestow on me in this life.
In form following after my lawful debt and funeral expenses are paid. Impromise
I give unto my Sister Margaret ANDERSON my cedar swamp on Harrison's Creek
Swamp. Item I give unto my sister Mary PORTER the land which brother Absalom
left to me on the river Item I give to my sister Agnes the land where on
I now lived, her heirs and assigns forever as also to my two first mentioned
I give to them their heirs and assigns forever. My mare and colt I give
to my Sister Agnes. I also will to my Sister Agnes and Mary my hogs and
grain for their sustenance while they dwell on my plantation. And thereby
constitute my two sisters Mary & Agnes my Executrixs to this my last
Will & Testament. I futher will to my sister Agnes my bed and furniture
with all my household furniture and implements.
In witing where of I have here unto set my hand & seal
Daniel (X) McDaniel
his mark
Signed Sealed & Dated In presence of
Teach (X) BUTTON
Mick (X) McGEE
Rob't (X) EDWARDS

Will of William G. McDONALDState of North Carolina, Cumberland County

I, William G. McDONALD, of the county, and State aforesaid, being of
sound mind and perfect memory, do make and ordain this my last will and
Testament { as follows } 1st I will and devise that my funeral expenses
and all my just debts be paid. 2nd I will and devise unto my wife Thamar
McDONALD, for and during her natural life the lower part of my river lands,
by a line running from a walnut stump on the river bank, then as my road
runs to my plantation house, then to the back line of said track, including
all my buildings and all my lands sounth of that line. 3rd I further will,
and devise unto my son, Amos J McDONALD, all my lands on the North side
of the lands devised to my wife. 4th I will and devise unto my wife Thamar
McDONALD for and during the term of her natural life, as follows, old Amy,
Harriet, Dave, Tom, Sandy, Bill, Francis, and also Dicy, and her sons,
also my stock of cattle, horses, mules, hogs, and sheep, and all my farming
goods, wagons, carts, and gear of all kinds, household and kitchen furniture,
and one buggy and harness, also all my crop of every kind.

5th I further will and devise unto my son Amos the following slaves,{vis}
Isham and Barbara, and her future increase to him, and his heirs forever.
6th I futher will and devise unto my daughter Elizabeth A. MITCHELL, for
and during the term of her natural life, my negro woman Lucy, and boy Peter,
also Susan in lien of Kisiah, and their future increase for the sole,and
separate use, and benefit of Elizabeth A. MITCHELL, free and clear of the
present and future debts, of her husband, or of any husband, she may hereafter
have and upon the death of said Elizabeth A., said slaves and their increase
to be equally divided between the children, of said Elizabeth Ann then
living, slave Susan is now in the possession of said Elizabeth Ann. 7th
I further will and devise unto my daughter Narcissa McKINNON, for and during
the term of her natural life, my negro woman, Eliza and children and Ann,
and their future increase, for the sole use, and seperate benefit, of said
Narcissa, free and clear of the present and future debts, of her husband,
or any husband, she may hereafter have, and upon the death of said Nacissa,
said slaves and their increases, to be equally divided between the children
of said Narcissa then living. 8th I further will and devise unto my daugther
Susan MAXWELL, for and during the term, of her natural life, my negro girl
Nelly and boy Andrew and their future increases, free and clear of the
present and future debts, of her husband, or of any husband, she may hereafter
have, and upon the death of said Susan, said slaves and their increase
to be equally divided between the children, of said Susan then living.
9th I further will and divised unto my daughter Rebecca E. MELVIN, for
and during the term, of her natural life, my negro girl, Rachiel, and children
and boy Charles, and their future increase, free and clear of the present
and future debts, of her husband, or any husband, she may hereafter have,
and upon the death of said Rebecca, said slaves and their increase to be
equally divided between the children, of said Rebecca then living. 10th
I further will and devise unto my two grand children, Wm. H. and Sarah
B. McDONALD my negro girl little Amy and child Jim, and also Sarah a girl,
and their increase, to be equally divided between them, when William becomes
of age. 11th I further will and devise that at the death of my wife, Thamar
McDONALD, that all those slaves willed and devised to her, for life, an
also the future increase of said slaves, and other personal property, be
equally divided between my childern, Elizabeth A., Narcissa, Susan, Amos
J., Rebecca J., and my two Grand children, Wm. H., and Sarah B. McDONALD,
as their Father's share would have been divided, and their heirs forever.
12th I further will and devise, all my land to my Grand Son William H.
McDONALD, which I have willed and devised to my wife, Thamar McDONALD,
after the death of said Thamar McDONALD, and to his heirs forever. 13th
I further ordain, and appoint my Son Amos J. McDONALD as Guardian, for
my two Grand children William H. and Sarah B. McDONALD. And lastly, I do
hereby constitute, and appoint, my Soninlaw, Alexander MAXWELL, and my
Son Amos J. McDONALD, my lawful executors, to all intents and purposes,
to execute, this my last will and Testament, according to the true intent,
and meaning of the same, and every part, and clause thereof; hereby revoking,
and declaring utterly void, all other wills, and Testaments made by me
heretofore, in witness whereof, I the said William G. McDONALD do hereunto
set my hand and seal this 8th day of October 1862.

W.G.McDONALD (seal )
Signed and Sealed in the presence of us
John B. HAIR
William MURPHY
Notice The subscribers having quilified as Executor to the last will and
Testament of te late W.G. McDANAL Deceased At the court of Pleas and Quarter
Sessions held for the county of Cuberland in the Town of Fayetteville on
the first Monday in Decemeber 1863. Will on the 2 day of Janurary next
at the late residence of the said WG McDANAL Deceased hire to the highest
bidder two negro slaves for the year 1864 (voy) Nash a man and Easter a
woman belonging to the estate of the said WG McDANAL. The purchaser required
to give land with appraised Security this 9th day of Decemeber 1863 Decemeber
the 9th 1863
Alexander MAXWELL }
AJ McDANAL } executors

The Subscriber hereby give notice to all persons indebted to the estate
of WG McDanal Deceased to come foward and make immediate payment and to
those having claims against the said estate to present their duly authenticated
within the time perscribed by law or this notice will be pleaded in bar
of their recovery.
December the 9th 1863
Alexander Maxwell}
AJ McDanal } executors
December Ten 186
3 A paper writeing, peirporting to be the last will and testament of William
G. McDONALD is scheluted for probate in open court by Alexander MAXWELL
and Amos J. McDONALD the executors theirin named and the due execution
then of the said William G. McDONALD is found by (throught) and examination
of William MURPHY, one of the subscribing witnesses thereto. It is therefore
considered by the court, that the said paper writing and any (fort) then
of is the last will and testament of the said William G. McDONALD, and
the same on lend to the court and filed. And therefore the said Alexander
MAXWELL and Amos J. McDONALD executors and aforesaid duly qualified as
such by taking the oath required by law.
J.T. Warden Clerk

Will of Farquhard CampbellAbstract WB A 124-129 Arch June 11 1801
June 1808 Codicil: 28 April 1802

To my wife Rachel Campbell "all estate both real and personal which
came by her at our intermarriage. The Negroes which came by her and which
compose a part of the said Estate, should be equally divided between my
male children and such of the brothers and sisters of my said wife . .
. money interest, now in the use of Shadrach Holon with William Bryan and
William Goodman his securities . . . To my wife ?"the plantation,
Plenty Plains, whereon I now live - - -and the use of the Mansion House
until the coming of age of my son James…" To daughters Jannet Armstrong,
Isabel Smith, and heirs of my daughter Anne Buchanon and their father Hector
Buchanan, and Son-in-law Malcom McKay (The disposition of property and
monies to his daughters and son-in-law is unclear). To my son James 640
acres on the west side of the Cape Fear River being the plantation where
I now live and 450 acres bought from Henry Avera on both sides of the Upper
Little River and 4,000 acres purchased of Peter Mallet on Stewart Creek.
To my son William 640 acres on the East side of N.W. adjacent to George
Blocker land and 300 acres on Lock’s Creek adjacent to Thomas Murphy, and
200 acres adjacent to Hector Buchanon’s land and two 1/ 2 acres lots in
Fayetteville purchased of James Hogg and all the lands of plantation whereon
I formerly lived cont. 500 acres and 1760 acres between Cape Fear and Black
River and 450 acres in Moore County, incd. The prongs of Cane Creek and
a house and lot in Fayetteville and mill and mill lands on Carver’s Creek
when he is 21.

Executors: son-in-law Thomas Armstrong and sons James and William Armstrong.
. Witnesses Samuel D. Purviance, A McQueen and Jno MacQueen.

Codicil: I repeal provisions for Negroes and money at interest; to go
to wife and heirs forever.

To wife Florah McAlester, plantation and 100 acres- - -survey patented
by Hugh Brown, January 29, 1789 and 50 acres to Daughters Isabell McAllester,
and Florah McNair. To sons Robert McAlester and James McAlester 5 shillings
each. To Hector McAlester old plantation where I formerly lived and 100
acres.

Executors: Thomas Armstrong and John McAlester of Richmond. Witnesses:
Robert Mountgomery and Daniel Mountgomery.
Submitted by Jo Grasso
kodiwolf@earthlink.net

John McKethan, Sr. planter WB: B: 1-6 Arch
February 1815/June 1818

To my wife Margaret McKethan and son Dugald McKethan the plantation
where I now live, two work creatures (horses), all parcels of land remains
unsold of a tract purchased by me from George McKenzie while wife lives
and then to son Dugald McKethan. Beloved son James McKethan, land on west
side of the North West River Cape Fear granted by patent top Colonel William
Forbes and purchased by me from James McKethan, Sr. (Except 25 acres of
upper part of said tract joining McKenzie’s survey to my sons James and
Dugald, two islands in Cape Fear River or nothwest river, opposite the
lower part of Forbes’ land the other on the Silver Run Falls. Also two
_ acre lots in Averasborough. My son Neill McKethan 200 acres (except what
McNeill’s land takes from it) on Taylor’s hole creek that I first patent
on, and privilege of road. To daughter Mary McKethan—land in Sampson County
on Black Mingo Creek and 76 acres in Cumberland County on Black Mingo.
To daughter Jennet Philips, 300 acres on lower side of Lower Little River
and remains of 250 acres in Sampson County between Black Mingo and Beaver
Dam Swamp. To son John McKethan the remains of unsold 640 acres of land
patented by me on west side of black River joining Robert Sterling, 150
acres of land in Sampson County purchased by me from Allen Stewart, also
320 acres in said (Sampson) county, it being my part and Daniel McKethan’s
part of a certain 640 acres which fell to us by the death of our father.
Also 200 acres of upper survey between Mingo and Beaver Dam Swamp in Sampson
County to be taken off 500 acres survey to Beaver Dam Swamp. To James and
Dugald land in Cumberland County west side of Black River purchased by
me from James McKethan, Jr. (deceased) containing 300 acres, also 200 acres
in Sampson County on Black Mingo being part of upper 500 acres survey joining
Black Mingo Creek. To daughters Catharine McKethan 320 acres fronting on
the river below the Bluff meeting house and joining Hector McNeill’s land
on Silver Run Creek. The lands now in dispute between Harry S. Williams,
about Carver’s Creek and me formerly the property of Colin Shaw, Sr…. to
be sold if decided in my favor ---divided between three daughters (Catherine [ The use of Catherine here is in error. John's original will shows Christian, Jennet, and Mary ],
Jennet, and Mary) and son, Neill. Son John McKethan, Christian McKethan,
my daughter; daughter Jennet Philips (wife of Angus Philips?). Son-in-law
Daniel Kyle, grandchildren: Angus and Grissillah Gealbreadth. Youngest
two sons: James and Dougald.

I Jesse Northington being low in health but of Sound and dispensing
mind and memory do make and ordain this my last will and testament and
desire it to be received by all as such. Item 1st I leave my soul to God
and my body to be decently buried and all my Just debts and funeral expences
to be paid. Item 2nd I give unto my beloved wife Ann Northington the following
property (viz) Si Balaam Lewis (?) Suck Jean Fran Ephram and Tamer and
also all my stock of Every Kind, House hold and kitchen furniture, plantation
utentials with all the Crop of Every Kind and also all the tract of land
where on I now live containing by Estimation two hundred and fifty acres
be the same more of less during her natural life or widdow hood and to
be Equaly divided among all my Children or their lawfull heirs. Except
the above named land and my desire is that my son Allen Northington should
have that at the decease or marage of my said wife. Item 3rd I give unto
my son William two Negroes named Lewis and Nell now in his posesion one
bed and furniture also in his posesion. Item 4th I give to my son Jesse
two negroes named Jerry and Lucy allready delivered to him and one bed
and furniture also in his posesion. Item 5th I five unto my son James two
negroes named Sandy and Selah already delivered to him and one bed and
furniture also in his posesion. turn over

Item 6th I give unto my son Levi two negroes named Aaron and Henry now
in his posesion and one Bed and furniture also in his posesion. Iteh 7th
I give unto my son Allen two negroes named Thomas and Fatima already delivered
unto him also one bed and furniture also in his posesion. Item 8th I give
unto my daughter Ann Watson wife of William Watson two negroes named Ephram
and Melear and one bed and furniture all in the posesion of said Watson.
Item 9th I give unto my daughter Christaney McNeill wife of Malcom McNeill
two negroes named Sue and Jurden and one bed and furniture all in the posesion
of said McNeill. Item 10th I five unto my daughter Marthy two negroes named
Phibe and Cary and one bed and furniture and also give unto my grand son
Samuel T the first Child the above named Phibe shall fetch and also at
the death of my said wife my desire is that my said grand son should have
one horse bridle and saddle and one bed and furniture before a devision
takes place among my said heirs. Item 11th I give unto my daughter Phillis
Olive wife of Grey Olive two negros named Chnsy and Briant and one bed
and furniture now in the posesion of said Olive. Turn over Item 12th I
give unto my grand daughter Elizabeth one negro named Siller and one bed
and furniture one horse bridle and saddle alredy named in a deed of gift
which is Recorded in the County of Cumberland. And further all the Remainder
of my Estate not mentioned in my above will to be Sold after my death to
defray the above named Expence and if their should be any Remainder after
paying my Just debts and funeral Expences the balance to be divided among
my above named heirs. I do further Revoke all wills here to for assigned
to me and make and ordain this my last will and tesiment and I appoint
my beloved wife Ann Northington and my son Levi my Excutrix and Executor
to this my last will and testemant. Signed sealed this 26th day of May
1825 in presents of Jesse Northington seal S Sentre (X) John KIng (X)

According to D.A.R. records of Mrs. Cornelia Alice Norris (#113253),
Jesse Northington m 1773 Ann Pope (d. 1833). Jesse Northington (1751-1728)
served as a private in the Wilmington militia, Cumberland Co., NC during
the Revolutionary War. He was born in Surry County, and died in Cumberland
County, NC.
Submitted by: Martha Canopy
mlcanopy@mtco.com

Samuel Northington1792

In the Name of God, Amen

I, Samuel Northington of the State of North Carolina and County of Cumberland
being low and weak in Body tho of a Sound and Dispensing mind and Memory
do Make and Ordain this my last Will and Testament in the form and Manners
following:

I give to my son Samuel Northington Five Shillings in Bar of any Further
portion of Me than what I have already delivered him.

I leave to my son Davis Northington and to his heirs [Following this
are two unreadable lines on the fold of the paper. Perhaps the original
is readable, but the copy is not. The first of these lines is the legacy
to Davis Northington. Being only one line, it is probably "Five Shillings
in Bar of any Further portion of Me" as in the other legacies. The
second illegible line starts, "Item I give to my...." apparently
naming another child. The will then continues with the legacy to that child,
as follows:]

Heirs Five Shillings in Bar of any further portion of Me. Item I give
to my Daughter Molly Alk--- Five Shillings in Bar of any further portion
of Me. Item I give to my son Jesse Northington Five Shillings in Bar of
any further portion of Me. Item I give to my son John Northington Five
Shillings in Bar of any further portion of Me. Item I give to my Grand
Son Samuel Johnson one Hundred pounds this to be paid out of my estate
by my son William Northington to sd Samuel Johnson when he comes to the
age of Twenty One years. Item and after the payment of all my Just Debts
above said Legacies and Funeral Expences, I give all the Remainder of my
whole Estate Both real and personal to my Son William Northington and to
his Heirs and assignes forever. Item and I do hereby nominate and appoint
my Sons Samuel and William Northington my sole Executors of this my last
Will and Testament and I do here by revoke and make void all Wills and
Testaments here to fore made by me declaring this (and No Other) to be
my last Will and Testament. In Witness wherefore do here into sit my hand
and seal this Eleventh Day of August one thousand seven hundred and ninety
two. in presence of XBllock X Samuel Northington [seal] Hardy David Smith

{Cover says: The last Will and Testament of Saml Northington, 1792}
Cumberland County Original Wills, 1757-1955, Samuel Northington, 1792

According to D.A.R. records of Mrs. Cornelia Alice Norris (#113253),
Samuel Northington m 1746 Phillie Edmunds (d. 1772). Samuel Northington
served as a private in the Wilmington militia, Cumberland Co., NC during
the Revolutionary War. He was born in Surry County, and died in Cumberland
County, NC.
Submitted by: Martha Canopy
mlcanopy@mtco.com

Elisha Stedman Transcribed by Laura Powers
powersla@intrstar.net
From the Cumberland County Will Book B pg. 215, 1378

Elisha Stedman In the name of God Amen, I Elisha Stedman of the Town
of Fayetteville in the State of North Caorlina, merchant, being of a sound
& disproving mind and memory, but languishing on a bed of sickness
& bearing in mind the uncertainty of human life,do, on this eighteenth
day of September in the year of our Lord, One thousand, eight hundred and
thirty two, make publish and declare, this my last Will and Testament,
in manner and form following that is to Say - First; I give and devise
to my Executors there inafter in as much all my estate real and personal
for the payment of all my legal debts. To this and, they, my said Executors
shall have full power to sell and dispose of and make title to any and
part of my said Estates, real or personal, in for simply or otherwise -
they first consulting and obtaining the opinion and advise of General James
Owen of Wilmington, Major John Owen of Bladen and John Huske Esquire of
Fayetteville on this subject. Secondly And whereas my son James Owen Stedman
has it in contemplation to enter on a course of Theological Studies, to
prepare himself for the ministry of the Gospel and as the change of circumstances
which my death might occasion, might possibly circumscribe his means of
advantageously prosecuting his studies at a distant Seminary, it is my
will and desire that he postpone the said course, for the space of twelve
months after my decease and that he together with my son, John Madison
Stedman, take my stock of goods now on hand at cost and trade together
for their joint benefit asmerchants and co-partners for the space of one
year after my decease, in the new store that is now finishing. Thirdly,
After my said debts shall be fully paid and satisfied, I give and devise
the rest and residue of my said estates whether real or personal, or both,
to my four sons, Thomas William Stedman, John Madison Stedman, James Owen
Stedman, Denny Porterfield Stedman, equally to them and their heirs and
assigns forever. Lastly, I do hereby make, constiture, and appoint my two
sons, John Madison Stedman, and James Owen Stedman, Executors of this my
last Will and Testament: and I do hereby further constitute and appooint
my son Denny Porterfield Stedman co-excutor of this my said last Will,
when he shall have attained the age of twenty one years, but this latter
appointment is no to abridge the authority of my two Executors first named
during his minority.

This last will was Signed,

E. Stedman
Seal

Sealed, Published and declared By the Testator in our presence
And witnessed by us in presence of each other, the day & year first
above mentioned.
Colin McIver
Henry Potter

Codicil to the preceding last Will and Testament of Elisha Stedman,
On this the twenty fourth day of September, in the year of our Lord, one
thouseand eight and thirty two, being Still of (helped by God) of sound
and disposing mind and memory, I Elisha Stedman, do by this codicil to
the preceding will declare it to be my will and desire, that Major John
Owen of Bladen County, North Carolina unite with and be added to the number
of my Executors above named, and I do hereby constitute & appoint him
the said Major John Owen, of the Executors of this my last Will and Testament.
Signed, Sealed, published,

E. Stedman
Seal

and declared in the presence of
Colin McIver

Henry Potter Transcribed by Laura Powers
powersla@intrstar.net
From Cumberland County will book C pg. 377 1180C

Henry Potter Knowing the instability of all human affairs the uncertain
tenure of life and the certainty of death I wish to set my house in order:;
and to prepare for my departure, so this and I make this my last will and
testament, this Twenty ninth day of October, A. D. 1853. I commend my spirit
to him who gave it, hoping through this merit and all sufficiency of the
blessed savior that my sins may be blotted out, that my heart may be purified
by the Holy Spirit and that by the unmerited mercy and grace of a sin pardoning
God, I may be admitted at last into the new Jerusalem there to join the
heavenly host in praise and adoration to God and the Lamb forever.
What little worldly substances I may possess I give it all to my dear daughter
Mary Ann Potter with full power to use or dispose of the house as she may
think proper without rendering an inventory or account of sales.- the paying
the debts I may owe in the Town of Fayetteville if there be a sufficiency
and I appoint my said daughter, Mary Ann my sole Executor of this my last
Will and Testament which I shall deposit with my most valuable papers,
and which is written, signed & sealed with my own hand, this day of
the date -

H. Potter
Seal

But for the facility of Probate, I now on this sixteenth day of March
1854, I acknowledge the above to be my hand & seal, act & deed,
and I here by declare & publish the same to be my last Will & Testament
in the presence of -
S. L Hawley

In the name of God Amen, I Sylvia Williams Potter of the County of Cumberland,
and State of North Carolina being of sound mind and memory, blessed by
God do this day of April 4th one thousand eight hundred and fifty two,
make and publish this my last will and testament, in manner following that
is to say-
First. I commend my spirit to him who giveth, hoping through the merit
and atoning sacrafice of the blesses Savior, that my sins may be forgiven,
that my heart may be purified by the Holy Spirit- and that by the unmerited
mercy of a sin pardoning God, I may be admitted at last into the new Jerusalem,
there to join, the heavenly host in adoration and praise to God and the
lamb forever.
Next, I give and devise to my daughter Olivia Stedman and her children
a part or portion of my lot of land called Chelsea, on the sandhills west
of Fayetteville so with beginning at the North West Corner of said lot,
thence running with the eastern line there of one hundred and fourty feet
to a stake then parallel with the North and South line of said lot one
hundred and ten feet to a stake, thence running parallel with the east
and west line aforesaid, one hundred and fourty feed to the North and South
lines aforesaid thence along that line, one hundred and ten feet to the
beginning - containing about one half an acre, more or less and all buildings
and improvements, rights, hereditaments, apparatuses, to the same belonging
and also thirty feet in width of the old garden running through the same
and next to and parallel with the North and South line afforesaid and also
the privelege of using the spring and other water on the said lot ; to
her the said Olivia Stedman and her children and to their heirs and assigns
forever.
And I give and devise to my daughter Mary Ann Potter, all the rest and
residence of my said Lot of Land together with all the buildings and improvements
thereon and all rights, hereditaments, apparatuses, to the same belonging
and also my lot of land on the said hills west of Fayetteville which I
hold under a deed from Wm, I. Anderson, Executor of David Anderson, to
my husband in trust for me bearing date the first of February, 1845 containing
five and ¼ acres more or less, to her the sid Mary Ann Potter, her
heirs and assigns forever.

Signed and sealed and published the day and year above written in presence
of us.
S. L. Hawley
J. B. Hawley

In the name of God Amen, the Last Will and Testament of Sarah Hand of
the State of North Carolina, now of Fayetteville, usually residing in Moore
County- Considering the uncertainty of this Mortal Life and being of sound
mind and memory thanks to my Heavenly Father for the same, I Sarah Hand
this day do make and publish this my Last Will and Testament, in manner
and form following, that is to say---

First I give and bequeath to William MacLean a minor son of Hugh and
Sally MacLean, dec., my male slaves Edinborough and Hanibal, my Secretary,
Bed Matress and Bed Furniture, together with two shares of Cape Fear Bank
Stock held my me.

ITEM, I give and bequeath to Sally Jones Belden, a daughter of Simeon
and Emily Eliza Belden, my female slave named Eley, daughter and at present
the youngest child of my wench Eley…

ITEM, I give and bequeath to my niece Julia Armstrong, and to the Heirs
of her body, my Female Slave named Harriett…

ITEM, I give and bequeath to Emily Eliza Belden, wife of Simeon Beldon
one share of Cape Fear Bank Stock held by me.

ITEM, I give and bequeath to each of my nephews and nieces, sons and
daughters of my Brother Jeremiah Hand, who may be alive at my death, one
share of Cape Fear Bank Stock held by me, that is to say one share to each.

ITEM, I give and bequeath to Hugh MacLean, a minor son of Hugh MacLean,
dec., and Mary Ann His wife, my female slave named Fanny, it is my intention
to exchange Fanny for a younger slave for Hugn in case it is not done before
my death, it is my Will that his mother do it afterwards.

ITEM, I give and bequeath to my Brother Jeremiah Hand, and to his Heirs
forever after paying any just debts and funeral expenses, all the rest,
residue and remainder of my personal Estate, Goods and Chattels of what
kind and nature whatsoever.. And lastly I appointmy my friends John Huske
and Simeon Belden my sole Executors of this my Last Will and Testament,
with a special request they will hold in trust the property bequeathed
to William MacLean until he arrives at the age of twenty-one, to hire out
the slaves and to receive such dividends as may be declared on his stock
and the money which may into their hands from the hire of the slaves and
dividends on the stock to be applied to his the said William's benefit,
at their discretion, either in the purchase of Bank stock or in being put
0out at interest for his use.

In witness whereof I have set my had and affixed my seal this first
day of March in the Year of Our Lord One Thousand Eight Hundred and Twenty-three
(1823).

Signed Sarah Hand Witnesses James K. Belden J. W. Cochran

Whereas I Sarah Hand now of Moore County in the State of North Carolina
have made my Last Will and Testament in writing bearing date on the first
day of March in the year of our Lord One Thousand Eight Hundred and Twenty-Three
(1823) and have thereby given to my niece Julia Armstrong daughter of my
Brother Jeremiah Hand, my female slave named Harriet, now I do by this
my writing which I hereby declare to be a Codicil to my said Will to be
taken as a part thereof, revoke the said bequest made to my niece Julia,
and do now give and bequeath to Sally Jones Belden daughter of Simeon and
Emily Eliza Belden my female slave named Eley which at the making of my
said last Will and Testament was the youngest child of my wench Eley, now
I hereby revoke the said bequest and by this Codicil give and bequeath
my female slave named Eley daughter of my wench Eley to my niece Julia
Armstrong (daughter of my brother Jeremiah Hand) and to the Heirs of her
Body and lastly it is my desire that this my present Codicil be annexed
to and made a part of my Last Will and Testament to all intents and purposes,
in Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this 16th day of
February in the Year of Our Lord One thousand eight hundred and twenty-four,
(1824).

Signed Sarah Hand

Executed and declared by the above named Sarah Hand as a Codicil to
be annexed to her Last Will and Testament in our presence at the Plantation
known and called by the name of Washington Hill in Moore County, State
of North Carolina the day and year above written.